In Kansas, bail amounts vary based on the severity of the offense, the defendant’s criminal history, and other factors. While some counties utilize automatic bond schedules that assign standard bail amounts for specific offenses, these schedules can differ between jurisdictions.

Key Points

• Bail Schedules – Certain counties have established bail schedules that specify standard bail amounts for various charges. For instance, the Twelfth Judicial District employs an Automatic Bond Schedule (ABS) to determine bail amounts for particular crimes.
• Judicial Discretion – Regardless of standard schedules, judges have the authority to adjust bail amounts during the defendant’s initial court appearance, taking into account factors such as…
  • Nature and severity of the offense
  • Defendant’s criminal record
  • Flight risk
  • Potential threat to public safety
• Release on Recognizance (ROR) – In certain situations, a judge may permit a defendant’s release without requiring bail, based on their assurance to appear in court as scheduled.
• Bail Bond Services – Defendants unable to afford the full bail amount can engage a bail bondsman, who typically charges a non-refundable fee of 10% of the total bail. For example, for a $10,000 bail, the bondsman’s fee would be $1,000.

Example

If an individual is charged with a non-violent misdemeanor in a county with a set bail schedule, the bail might be predetermined at $2,500. During the initial court appearance, a judge could modify this amount based on specific case details and the defendant’s background.

Conclusion

Bail amounts in Kansas are influenced by a combination of county-specific bail schedules, judicial discretion, and the defendant’s individual circumstances. For precise information, it’s advisable to consult the specific county’s bail schedule or seek legal counsel.